Advanced and Comparative Criminal Law

The course aims to engage with deep and difficult issues in criminal law through a blend of practical, theoretical, normative and comparative reasoning. The course covers some relevant legal and comparative theory, before engaging in two structural issues of legal reasoning (the structure of criminal liability and criminal procedure), two conceptual topics (complicity and fault), and two substantive topics (homicide and sexual offences). The seminar style is designed to be supportive, challenging and enjoyable, with two tutorials, and a choice of written work. The half paper takes place in Hilary Term, and offers the main substantive criminal law option on the BCL/MJur. Having studied some criminal law is assumed, though the course has always welcomed a diverse range of backgrounds, including common law, civil law and mixed jurisdiction backgrounds.

Assessment is by way of a submission. 

This option will be offered in 2026-27.